Save to Pinterest Celebrate the flavors of fall with this Walnut & Cranberry Stuffed Acorn Squash, a beautifully roasted dish showcasing tender acorn squash filled with a savory-sweet mixture of walnuts, cranberries, and fragrant herbs. Whether served as a wholesome vegetarian main or a hearty side, this recipe embodies comfort and festivity in every bite.
Save to Pinterest This dish brings warmth and color to your table, with an inviting aroma of cinnamon and fresh herbs that perfectly complement the sweetness of the fruit and the earthiness of the nuts. Its balanced blend of textures and flavors will delight your palate and impress your guests.
Ingredients
- Squash
- 2 medium acorn squash, halved and seeded
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 tsp kosher salt
- 1/4 tsp ground black pepper
- Stuffing
- 1 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
- 2 celery stalks, finely diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup cooked quinoa (or brown rice)
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
- 1 tsp chopped fresh thyme (or 1/2 tsp dried)
- 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- 1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- 2. Brush the cut sides of the acorn squash halves with olive oil and season with salt and black pepper. Place cut-side down on the baking sheet and roast for 30-35 minutes, or until tender when pierced with a fork.
- 3. While the squash roasts, heat butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion and celery; sauté until softened, about 5 minutes. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute more, stirring frequently.
- 4. Stir in the cooked quinoa, walnuts, cranberries, parsley, thyme, and cinnamon. Cook for 2-3 minutes until warmed through. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Remove from heat and stir in feta cheese if using.
- 5. Remove the squash from the oven and carefully turn them cut-side up. Fill each half generously with the stuffing mixture.
- 6. Return stuffed squash to the oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, until heated through and the tops begin to brown.
- 7. Garnish with extra parsley if desired. Serve warm.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
Make sure to roast the squash cut-side down first to ensure it becomes tender without drying out. Use fresh herbs if possible for a vibrant flavor, and if you prefer, substitute quinoa with brown rice as a suitable alternative.
Varianten und Anpassungen
For a vegan option, omit the feta cheese or replace it with a plant-based substitute. You can also add chopped apples or pears to the stuffing for an added touch of natural sweetness and texture.
Serviervorschläge
This stuffed acorn squash pairs wonderfully with a light white wine like Sauvignon Blanc and can be served alongside a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.
Save to Pinterest This recipe stands as a delightful tribute to seasonal ingredients and simple cooking, inviting you to enjoy the comforting flavors of fall in a healthy and satisfying way. Celebrate with family or friends and make this Walnut & Cranberry Stuffed Acorn Squash a staple on your table.
Common Recipe Questions
- → What is the best way to prepare the acorn squash?
Halve and seed the squash, brush the cut sides with olive oil, season with salt and pepper, then roast cut-side down until tender, about 30-35 minutes.
- → Can I substitute quinoa with another grain?
Yes, cooked brown rice or couscous work well as alternatives, adding a similar texture and absorbing the flavors of the stuffing.
- → How do the walnuts and cranberries affect the dish flavor?
Walnuts provide a crunchy, nutty element while cranberries add a burst of natural sweetness, balancing the savory herbs perfectly.
- → Is there a way to make this dish vegan?
Simply omit the feta cheese or replace it with a plant-based cheese alternative to keep the dish plant-friendly without sacrificing flavor.
- → What herbs complement this stuffing best?
Fresh parsley and thyme add bright, earthy notes that enhance the overall savory-sweet profile and aroma of the filling.
- → Can this be made ahead of time?
Yes, prepare the squash and stuffing separately, then assemble and bake just before serving to maintain freshness and texture.